By Mahmoud
Niger State Governor Umar Bago have engaged in a heated debate with BBC Reporter over insecurity challenges as 300 Students attack wirh 50 escaped captivity.
As at the time of filling this reports, the reporter was optimistic that no single security was seen at the entire village. She cited the school despite is location, their is need to deploy more arms soldiers to secure the lives of citizens. Shower, the reporter was brave enough to visit Papiri she said.
This has create virtually criticism for the governors response to the abduction of over 300 students from St. Mary Primary and Secondary School in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area.
The governor denied that government officials had visited the victims, sparking outrage.
Bago also blamed the school authority for neglecting a state government order, which led to the attack.
*Key Developments:*
– *Abduction*: Over 300 students were abducted, with 50 rescued and 15 regaining freedom.
– *Government Response*: Governor Bago denies officials visited victims, sparking criticism.
– *Blame*: Bago blames school authority for neglect, citing failure to follow security directives.
– *Insecurity*: Niger State faces rising banditry, with lawmakers urging federal intervention .
*Reactions:*
– *APC Support*: APC reaffirms support for Bago amid insecurity concerns.
– *Civic Groups*: Call for U.S. sanctions over human rights abuses and intolerance.
– *Critics*: Accuse Bago of silencing critics and prioritizing politics over security .
In a related development, Governor Umar Bago of Niger State has been accused of showing no tolerance for criticism, with several incidents highlighting his intolerance to dissenting voices. Here are some key examples:
– *Closure of Badeggi FM*: Bago shut down Badeggi 90.1 FM Radio in Minna, citing “inciting violence” and “unethical behavior”, sparking widespread criticism from Amnesty International and press freedom advocates.
– *Arrest of Student Activist*: He ordered the arrest of student activist Isah Mokwa for criticizing him on social media, drawing condemnation from human rights groups.
– *Public Insults*: Bago publicly insulted his Director of Protocol, Abdullahi Yarima, calling him “very stupid” during a security council meeting.
– *Controversial Directives*: He introduced a licensing scheme for preachers, requiring them to submit sermons for approval, and ordered the arrest of individuals with dreadlocks, sparking outrage .
These incidents have raised concerns about Bago’s commitment to freedom of expression and press freedom in Niger State.
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